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Community Corner

5 Great Ways to Ring in the New Year

Here's a few suggestions for welcoming 2012 in and near Highland Park.

Time flies!

Whether you’re ready to close the book on another year or not, it’s time to bid farewell to 2011. Highland Park’s nightlife scene may not be as bustling and glamorous as Hollywood, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to get into.

1. There’s plenty of places in HLP to make that midnight toast. Pop in and hang out for a while at popular spots like The York, , and , but wherever you decide to go, make sure to have a designated driver!

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2. If the bar scene isn’t your thing or for those trying to stay low key, head over to and watch the latest movies on the big screen. Bargain matinees (every showing before 6 p.m) at $4 per ticket also make this a good, affordable outing for the entire family. The box open opens at noon and the last showing starts just after 9 p.m.

3. Enjoy a nice meal at one of Highland Park’s newest eateries—Maximiliano’s. The Italian restaurant opened back in October and offers a variety of pasta dishes, market plates, pizza and also has an array of wine, beer and bubbly. For reservations call (323) 739-6125.

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4. Looking to get out of the neighborhood for a little while? Hop on Metro down to Pershing Square and take a ride on “The Shortest Railway in the World” for just one cent. Angels Flight Railway turns 110 years old today and is celebrating by offering one-way fares for a penny. Angels Flight will be open until 10 p.m. A limited number of commemorative tickets (1,000) are also available for $1 each, and can be purchased at the station house in California Plaza.

5. Ice Skating can be fun for kids and adults of all ages. Not to mention it’s a fun and unique way to close out the year. Downtown on Ice, located at 532 South Olive in Pershing Square, will be open until 10 pm tonight. Take Metro and receive $1 off general admission.

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